Expert: PaulKoinig - 12/4/2009

Question
Dear Paul,
I have a "few" questions for you :D
I am 29 years old and am currently serving my country over seas as a 68T (Vet Tech) and am in my second year of service. I am looking at my reenlistment window and trying to decide if I should or not. I want to become a MWD handler for MP but am running into a few issues with my Secret security clearance. To become a 31B (MP) you must receive a recommendation for a Provos Marshal and be able to obtain a SS clearance. The reason I am having a problem is as follows.

1) I owe around 10k to the IRS (will have paid off upon my return to the states)
2) Possession of under 1gram of Marijuana (plead guilty) around 8-10 years ago
3) guilty of a fraudulant check to Krogers <$150 8 years ago
4) failure to show for traffic violation 4 years ago
5) and 2 or 3 other minor traffic violations

these things are haunting me terribly. I have had no criminal record for the past 8 years other then the speeding ticket that I forgot about. so these are my questions.
1) Will it be possible for me to even become an officer with my record.
2) will my military service help me in any way.
3) What can I do to improve my chances of becoming a handler if I do get accepted and pass all prereqs.
4) Will my work as a Vet tech help me in the process and what courses can I take to further improve my chances of getting picked up to be a handler.
5) will an associates degree be good enough or do I need a bachelors.  

Answer
Jordan, unfortunately you have a tough uphill climb. Todays market for law enforcement is becomeing very stringent and you past is a tough sell. Never give up. Try your best and just be honest. It is so much easier to ask for forgiveness than permission. Get your fett straight and stay clean. Good Luck Paul